On Tuesday, 23 January, Refugee Union members, along with members of Socialist Action, protested outside the Cheung Sha Wan government offices in support of continuing tuition subsidies for refugee children. Currently the government office has delayed these necessary subsidies, leaving refugee children and their families in limbo. These subsidies are essential so that refugee children may have equal access to quality education. Refugees in Hong Kong are prohibited from working in the city, and thus cannot afford to pay the increasingly expensive tuition fees charged by schools here. Refugee Union believes that quality education and child care are human rights, and that government spending must be increased in these areas. Refugee Union opposes the Hong Kong government’s accelerating privatization of education. This government action disproportionately affects the refugee community, and is detrimental to all who reside in Hong Kong.

On 8 January, Refugee Union (RU) held its first monthly meeting of 2018. Though the weather was quite cold, members and visitors showed up in force. RU members discussed ongoing issues and concerns. One of the most pressing issues for refugees continues to be legal battles for recognition of refugee status here in Hong Kong, and fear of deportation back to dangerous situations in home countries. Such legal battles cause a great deal of stress and anxiety for refugees and their families here. Parents especially worry about the future of their children, and how to raise healthy and happy children here in Hong Kong in the midst of this stress and uncertainty.

Other issues discussed included raising awareness about the recent apartment rent increases. While rent has gone up, housing allowances for refugees have not. Since refugees are prohibited from working in Hong Kong, they are particularly affected by the high living expenses here.

Lastly, members discussed how to continue funding for ongoing and new programming here at Refugee Union. Cash donations will go a long way in order to provide for language classes, kids’ classes, playgroup, and more. Refugees have skills to share and develop with the greater Hong Kong community. Invest in refugees in Hong Kong. For more information, please email info@refugeeunion.org.

Refugee Union (RU) has already started getting busy in 2018. On 8 January, Refugee Union held its monthly meeting for members and visitors, and last weekend, RU resumed classes for children and adults.

We are grateful for all the donations of warm jackets, blankets, and diapers that have come in so far, and could always use more! Keep the donations coming. Most importantly, cash donations are needed to support existing programs for refugees, like our cultural diversity playgroup and language classes, as well as to fund new programs in 2018. There is still much to improve. Refugees have essential skills to share and develop, and your support will not only assist refugees, but the greater Hong Kong population as well. Human rights such as affordable housing, food, and child support remain incredibly difficult for refugees in Hong Kong to access.

Young people and parents at play during cultural diversity playgroup, held every other Wednesday at Refugee Union

Please consider making a cash donation to Refugee Union – we would be deeply grateful, and it will go a long way to supporting the refugee community here in Hong Kong. You can email us as at info@refugeeunion.org to learn more, and to donate. Thank you!

The Community at Refugee Union has been celebrating the holidays this December in a variety of ways. On the 9th of December, students at the West Harbor School organized a Christmas party for RU families. The event was a great success, and with activities like face-painting, gift exchanges, and arts and crafts, plus a visit from Santa, there was something for everyone to enjoy.

Santa, families, and students at the West Island School Christmas Party

Families and students enjoying some pizza at the West Island School party!

Students and families making arts and crafts at the West Island School Christmas Party

On the 16th of December, RU members, volunteers, donors, and friends came together at the Refugee Union office to celebrate the holiday season. There was lots of delicious food and fellowship to be had. Many many thanks to our donors who sponsored this event.

Thank you so much to all of our supporters this holiday season! Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all!

Enjoying some excellent dishes at the Refugee Union Christmas Party

Members enjoying some great food at the RU Christmas Party

A great bounty at the Refugee Union Christmas Party. Thank you donors!